Ask the Sleep Doctor: Sleep-Scratching

This week's Ask the Sleep Doctor question is a challenging one:

Q:

I have this problem where every once in a while, meaning maybe once or twice a month, I will scratch my face while I am sleeping.  I do not have long nails, but it does leave significant scratch marks below my eyes.  What could be causing this?  I read something about nocturnal seizures, but I am a pretty healthy person. 

A:

I am not sure what may be going on with you. I would likely see a sleep specialist in person, but here are some questions I would be prepared to answer when you get there:

1. Are you dreaming about something that makes you scratch yourself?
2. Are you sleep deprived on the days when this occurs?
3. Do you snore or suffer from other possible symptoms of sleep apnea?
4. Do you have a history of sleepwalking or sleep talking?
5. Have you been tested for allergies?